Dr. D. Sugumar, Associate Professor, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences
 
Could you introduce yourself to our audience?
 
I am Dr. D. Sugumar, a passionate academician, researcher, and innovator with over 20 years of experience in electronics and communication engineering. Currently, I serve as an Associate Professor at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences. My areas of expertise include AI-ML-based signal processing, 5G communication, and wearable antenna design for wireless and biomedical applications.
 
Over the years, I have authored 48 Scopus/WoS-indexed journal and conference articles, 6 book chapters, and 3 patents, alongside leading multiple government-funded and private seed money projects. My work spans advancements in blind source separation, IoT-driven solutions, and flexible antenna designs, significantly impacting healthcare, agriculture, and wireless communication sectors.
 
I am also an entrepreneur, co-founding WinRadoMind Pvt. Ltd. and FIOPSE Security, startups focusing on AI and IoT applications. As an AICTE Innovation Ambassador, I aim to foster creativity, problem-solving, and innovation among students and professionals, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
 
 
Could you tell us about your educational and professional journey?
 
I began my academic journey with a B.E. in Electronics & Communication Engineering from Bharathiar University in 2002, followed by an M.E. in Communication Systems from Anna University in 2007. In 2019, I completed my Ph.D. in Information and Communication Engineering from Anna University. To stay ahead in emerging fields, I pursued a PGP in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from the University of Texas at Austin in 2021 and earned a Global Certificate in Data Science in 2023. I am currently completing my Master of Data Science at Deakin University, Australia.
 
Professionally, I have over 20 years of teaching experience as an Associate Professor in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Karunya University. My research focuses on blind source separation, AI-ML-based signal processing, 5G communication, wearable technologies, and metamaterial antennas. I have also served as the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-PI for 8 funded seed projects. I have been honored with several awards, including the Best Teacher Award (2010), Innovative Professional Award (2016), and Young Achiever Award (2019). My consultancy work in RF and antenna design has not only generated significant funding but has also built strong industry-academia collaborations.
 
 
What are your areas of expertise, and how have they shaped your career path?
 
My career has been shaped by the following areas of expertise:

•     Blind Source Separation (BSS): My expertise in PCA, ICA, and IVA has enabled me to develop algorithms for biomedical applications, including seizure detection and Alzheimer's disease diagnosis.
•     AI-ML Based Signal Processing: Applying AI and machine learning to areas like hyperspectral imaging and predictive modeling has led to innovations in brain tumor detection and agricultural disease management.
•     Wireless Communication and 5G Technologies: I have designed antennas and systems for GSM, IoT, and 5G, contributing to secure communication and wearable device technologies.
•    Wearable and Metamaterial Antennas: My work on flexible, lightweight antennas has applications in healthcare and communication, such as EMG-based prosthetic arms.
•    Biomedical Signal Processing: I have developed systems for proactive breast cancer detection, cardiovascular monitoring, and fetal ECG extraction.
•    IoT and Embedded Systems: Solutions like IoT-based paddy field monitoring and smart vehicle tracking have addressed critical challenges in agriculture and transportation.

These areas have allowed me to combine research, teaching, and innovation, driving advancements that bridge academia and industry.
 
 
What are your current roles and responsibilities as Associate Professor of ECE at Karunya University?
 
In my current role, I balance teaching, research, and administration:

•   Teaching and Mentorship: I teach advanced courses in signal processing, AI-ML, and communication systems, mentor students on academic projects and entrepreneurial ventures, and supervise Ph.D. scholars.
•   Research and Development: I lead multiple funded projects in areas like biomedical signal processing and 5G communication, publish high-impact research articles, and file patents in wireless and medical technologies.
•   Administrative Roles: I coordinate Karunya's Innovation Cell and consultancy projects in the ECE department. I also oversee the Signal Processing Laboratory and guide initiatives in IEEE student branches and the Karunya E-Cell.
•   Community Engagement: I provide consultancy for RF and antenna design projects, organize conferences, and conduct workshops to enhance technical skills among students and faculty.
 
 
What inspired and motivated you to pursue a career in education?
 
Teaching has always been a passion for me. I enjoy simplifying complex concepts and inspiring students to think critically and innovatively. My career in education allows me to combine research with knowledge dissemination, addressing real-world problems through technology.

The opportunity to guide young minds and mentor future engineers motivates me every day. I also value interdisciplinary collaboration, which enables me to work across fields like AI, IoT, and biomedical engineering. Inspired by my own teachers, I am committed to shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators.
 
 
Could you tell us about your licenses and certifications?
 
I hold several professional memberships and certifications, including:

•   Senior Member of IEEE (SMIEEE): Active in Signal Processing, Antenna Propagation, and Microwave Societies.
•   PGP in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: University of Texas at Austin.
•   Master of Data Science (Ongoing): Deakin University, Australia.
•   Innovation Ambassador (AICTE): Promoting innovation through Institution's Innovation Council.
•   Certified Consultant: Specializing in RF design and AI-ML applications in biomedical engineering.

These certifications have helped me stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and contribute to academia and industry effectively.
 
 
What advice would you offer to students preparing to launch their careers in technology and engineering?
 
I encourage students to:

•  Build a strong foundation in mathematics, programming, and core engineering concepts.
•  Embrace lifelong learning by staying updated on technologies like AI, IoT, and 5G.
•  Focus on real-world applications through internships, projects, and competitions.
•  Develop soft skills, interdisciplinary knowledge, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
•  Seek mentorship, network actively, and be resilient in the face of challenges.
•  Prioritize ethical and sustainable engineering practices while following your passion.

A career fueled by curiosity and a commitment to making a difference is both fulfilling and impactful.

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